Amsterdam authorities have confirmed that dozens of arrests were made following two days of violent clashes between supporters of Israeli soccer club Maccabi Tel Aviv and pro-Palestinian demonstrators.
The unrest, which began on Wednesday, escalated during a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv on Thursday night.
The violence started when Maccabi Tel Aviv fans removed a Palestinian flag from a house in central Amsterdam, leading to heated confrontations with pro-Palestinian groups.
Tensions surged further during Thursday’s match, prompting clashes between the rival factions.
In response, local police were forced to intervene multiple times, providing protection to Israeli supporters and escorting them to nearby hotels.
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Several individuals were injured during the altercations, and authorities confirmed that 57 people had been arrested.
A joint statement from Amsterdam’s mayor, the police, and the public prosecutor said the authorities are in contact with both the Israeli embassy and Amsterdam’s Jewish community, who expressed concern over the violence.
The situation remains tense, and local authorities continue to monitor the developments closely.